Cogra Moss Reservoir

Background

Cogra Moss is an artificial water body near Lamplugh in West Cumbria. During the summer of 2013 we discovered a buried tunnel whilst completing statutory ITIOS (In The Interest Of Safety) work.

On inspection an independent engineer suggested that the tunnel should be concreted up or have a permanent access made available to it. Further work was also identified to address the lack of a siphon facility should the reservoir levels need to be reduced in a planned event or during an emergency.

The other approach suggested by the engineer was to discontinue Cogra Moss.

The engineering report left us with two options:

Fix the reservoir to satisfy all the ITIOS notices, or

Remove the reservoir and return the area back to its natural state.

It’s worth noting we have a legal obligation under the Reservoir Act 1975 to complete one of them.

We completed further surveys and cost benefit analysis to decide the most appropriate future for Cogra Moss. We also received communication from the local community in support of retaining the reservoir rather than returning it to a natural state.

After listening to the views of the community, alongside our own assessments, we have decided that the best course of action is to retain the reservoir and carry out the work required to satisfy the ITIOS inspection.

When will the work start?

We'll need to complete some initial preperation work. This will involve removing a section of hedgerow, creating a wider access to accommodate the larger vehicles/construction machinery and setting up our compound areas. We're expecting to start the main construction work in spring 2018 with completion in autumn/winter 2018.

Will I still be able to access Cogra Moss Reservoir?

There will be some temporary disruption while the work takes place, but all Public Rights of Way will remain open so you can still enjoy your time at Cogra Moss. We know the reservoir is popular with angling groups and will ensure we provide regular updates to explain how this work will affect fishing activity.